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Google develops contact lens glucose monitor

By MARTHA MENDOZA AP National Writer

Posted:
01/21/2014 08:04:25 PM CST

Updated:
01/21/2014 08:04:32 PM CST

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif.—Google unveiled Thursday a contact lens that monitors glucose levels in tears, a potential reprieve for millions of diabetics who have to jab their fingers to draw their own blood as many as 10 times a day.

The prototype is one of several medical devices being designed by companies to make glucose monitoring for diabetic patients more convenient and less invasive than the traditional finger pricks.

Google says it will take at least five years to reach consumers.

The lenses use a minuscule glucose sensor and a wireless transmitter to help those who are among the world's 382 million diabetics who need insulin keep a close watch on their blood sugar and adjust their dose.